LANDFILL GAS REMEDIATION SYSTEM

THE APPLICATION: The Androscoggin Valley Regional Refuse & Disposal District (AVRRDD) operates a large landfill located in Berlin, New Hampshire. This operation, previously owned by a pulp and paper mill, processes both construction and demolition debris (C&D) and municipal solid waste (MSW) for disposal in the landfill. Hydrogen sulfide gas is a byproduct of the breakdown of the CD while methane gas is produced through decomposition of the MSW. Through natural processes that occur in all landfills, these gases produce nuisance odor complaints within the local neighborhood and pose potential health hazards through long term exposure.

THE DESIGN: 264,000 lbs of Sulfatreat iron oxide filter media were installed in four steel vessels configured in a lead-lag process. The system includes a balanced process piping control strategy for ease of operation, self regulating heat tracing of all tanks (10 zones), process piping and a methane combustion flare including a fully automated, control feature for remote monitoring.

THE IMPLEMENTATION: Aquest provided a complete “turn-key” system including installation and start-up. Professional Engineering services were provided in support of all Aquest process piping and system configuration. Aquest fabricated 12’ dia. by 15’ high steel tanks locally and shipped them directly to the site where Aquest received, unloaded and placed this equipment. Built to ASME standards, the four tanks included OSHA caged ladders and service platforms. Heat tracing, insulation and cladding was provided by Aquest personnel. Aquest also provided the Parnel Flare package including all system automation and programming.

THE RESULTS: This landfill gas management system is providing 99+% removal efficiency in response to varying gas loads from within the landfill. The system has exceeded all State of New Hampshire (DES) regulatory requirements and start-up was on time and at budget. Process flow information is monitored 24 hours per day and recorded. Aquest has provided a services contract to include the removal and disposal of spent media with supply and replacement of Sulfatreat media on an “as need” basis.